iPhone becomes the first consumer device to receive NATO certification for handling classified information

On February 26, 2026, it was revealed that the iPhone and iPad had passed German government security tests and become the first civilian devices to be certified as 'NATO-certified devices capable of handling classified information.'

iPhone and iPad approved to handle classified NATO information - Apple
https://www.apple.com/newsroom/2026/02/iphone-and-ipad-approved-to-handle-classified-nato-information/

iOS and iPadOS 26 with Indigo configuration - NATO Information Assurance
https://www.ia.nato.int/niapc/Product/Indigo-26_968

The iPhone and iPad underwent security testing by the German Federal Office for Information Security (BSI) and were certified as NATO-certified devices for handling classified information. NATO's approved product page states, 'iOS 26 and iPadOS 26 work seamlessly with Apple silicon, delivering advanced security and privacy features that keep your operating system and data safe.'

NATO's page also states, 'Memory Integrity Enforcement, built into the A19 and M5 processors, provides an industry-first, always-on memory safety solution. This Memory Integrity Enforcement is the biggest advancement in memory safety in the history of a consumer OS,' praising the security technology built into the iPhone 17 series and iPad Pro.

The security feature 'Memory Integrity Enforcement' installed in the iPhone 17 and iPhone Air realizes memory safety that can defend against nation-state level hacking - GIGAZINE

'Before the iPhone, highly secure devices were only available to governments and businesses with significant investments. Apple has built the world's most secure devices for all users,' said Ivan Krstic, head of Apple's security division. 'And now, our protection meets the assurance requirements of NATO member states, an unparalleled achievement.' He emphasized that Apple is now offering security features certified by NATO to the general public.

iPhones and iPads also feature an advanced security feature called ' Lockdown Mode .' Lockdown Mode is a system designed for people who are targets of cyberattacks, limiting some of the device's functionality in exchange for maximizing its resistance to cyberattacks. In February 2026, a case was reported in which the FBI seized a journalist's iPhone but was unable to access the information due to lockdown mode.

FBI seizes journalist's iPhone but is thwarted by Apple's lockdown mode - GIGAZINE